Trail Info

Distance: 4.2 Miles
Directions: 10701 Columbia Pike
Trail Type: loop
Trail Rating:  DIFFICULT (3) 
Parking: 30 Spots or less
Dog Friendly: Yes
Family Friendly: Yes, Ages 5+

What to pack

• 1 water bottles
• hiking shoes or trail runners
• Bug Spray

Extras

TRAIL MAP

Maryland Trail Finder

The Experience

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You will love:  Brilliant forest canopy in the heart of the city, waterfalls, big rocks and kid friendly
You need to know:  Avoid the drive (and crowds) to the mountains and tackle this trail for a hike or trail run. You will be a kid again on the car sized boulders.

​The trail head is found off Columbia Pike, in a manicured gravel parking lot. The trail itself initiates here right along side the Anacostia River with outstanding views of small waterfalls & large car sized boulders draping the river bank. The trail kicks off with a bit of a rock scramble, expect to find yourself rock hopping, climbing boulders and traversing these beautiful giants as the sound of water fills the air. The trail provides several perch points to gaze upon as the river as it cascades through this minor gorge. The trail stabilizes into a standard path with manicured signs, compacted dirt and a few stream crossings. The beauty of this trail is the constant eye contact with the river while being blanketed by the forest canopy. Northwest Branch is a fun oasis in the middle of Silver Spring that where at points you will forget where you are. At the 2.2 mile marker look for a meet up with the Copperhead trail. Turn left here and ride this single-track deeper into the woods with tight turns and bigger forest views. The Copperhead has slight elevation gains and parallels the North Branch, its claim to fame is its ability to draw you in deeper to the woods. Have no worries the trail brings you back to the Northwest Branch trail just before the boulder scramble , this is the last leg before returning to your car.
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HIKE ON!